Talking Stick - September/October 2008 - (Page 23)

and cloths are relatively expensive, but they are versatile and can be used either wet or dry – and they last longer than traditional cloths and mops. Impact of Green Cleaning While green cleaning is recognized as a viable option for most facilities and maintenance operations, it is more expensive than using traditional cleaning products. Each program must reconcile the cost issue in its own way. For Byrne the decision was clear – Middlebury is committed to becoming environmentally friendly. “The increased cost of green cleaning needed to be offset through other methods such as bulk purchases, dilution systems, and other comprehensive cost reductions,” Byrne says. At Georgia Southern, Head controlled costs by using automated diluting systems and donated dilution tanks available through Grainger partnerships: “The old process of mixing chemicals by hand was inefficient and resulted in increased costs through overmixing and subsequent damage to fixtures resulting from overmixing.” Every institution needs to make informed decisions about green cleaning. Dirks sees his operation as being just past the halfway point of being green, but he is patient. “I am mindful of the internal and external environments and balance that with ease of use, cleaning effectiveness, and cost effectiveness.” If staff are accustomed to using traditional products and these products work, they may find it hard to change. (Head actually had to conduct locker checks in response to rumors that old chemicals were being “smuggled” back into the buildings.) If staff receive information up front, are included in the process, and are reassured that new methods won’t take more time and effort, then they can more easily welcome any changes. Making our buildings greener involves efforts to save energy, to use eco-friendly products in construction and renovation, and to recycle wastes. We also need to create a green indoor environment where we can all work and live and breathe in comfort and in safety. ts Von Stange is the director of university housing at the University of Iowa in Iowa City. E-mail: von-stange@uiowa.edu. Editor’s Note: This is the first installment in a series about indoor air quality. In the next issue, the focus will be on how mechanical systems impact air quality. HandyTrac introduces the newest innovation of its patented Online System, Generation 10 Ethernet. This new and improved option provides real time reporting. The system plugs into your computer network. We do your reports so you don’t have to Take advantage of our affordable prices and order your HandyTrac today! 800-665-9994 Building Better Systems over 25 Years www.handytrac.com View our flash demos at http://www.handytrac.com http://www.handytrac.com

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Talking Stick - September/October 2008 Contents Online Now Vision Just In Your ACUHO-I Transitions Res Life Facilities Business Calendar Safe Harbor Think Globally, React Locally Conversations First Takes Reporting Out New Members Snapshot

Talking Stick - September/October 2008

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